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The library inside the E.E. Waddell Center was recently renovated and updated to better serve the needs of the community. It now includes a hand-crafted computer table, a smart television and a hand-crafted bench that provides both extra seating and additional storage.

“The renovated library has a much better flow,” said Brent Kirven, community program supervisor. “The library and computer lab now have identifiable space which will provide us the opportunity to implement more than one program or activity at the same time.”

Kirven added that the hope “is that this will increase the utilization of the space and enhance the diversity of our programs, including an increase in intergenerational interaction and programming.”

While the coronavirus pandemic slightly delayed the renovation, it was completed in about six weeks. The Nehemiah Project, a nonprofit organization in the county, donated materials and helped with the renovations, Kirven said. The E.E. Waddell Center also received a grant from the Stanly County Community Foundation for laptops to support educational programming.

The Nehemiah Project originally approached Albemarle Parks and Recreation in January to offer support of programs at the E.E. Waddell Center, Kirven said. Staff from both the Nehemiah Project and the E.E. Waddell Center then met on several occasions to discuss their goals and visions for the project and to finalize a design plan.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused the E.E. Waddell Center to reduce its capacity and hours of operations along with modifying its programs and activities, Kirven said.

“While we do not know how long our operations will be modified, we will continue to develop and implement new and innovative programs that enhance the community,” he said.